What Is Marine Biology?

Marine Biologist is known for the scientific study of the ocean and also other seawater bodies. The scope of marine biology is as wide as Earth’s major oceans. Many marine biologists study salt sea life and ecosystems. You can observe animal behavior patterns and diseases. This field includes the study of the ocean itself and human connections with it. This helps us understand and reduce our impact on the planet. The ocean continues to change, but many mysteries remain about its depth and our dependence on it. Therefore, marine biology is an important field of research.

What Does A Marine Biologist Do?

Marine biologists sometimes do that, too. Marine biologists, also known as marine biologists, use a wide range of skills in their work. Marine biology fieldwork may involve working near (or in) the ocean, where diving, boating, and snorkeling skills may be useful. Some work directly with marine life in controlled spaces such as fisheries or aquariums. In some cases, this may include collecting data about nearby species or the chemical state of the water. Depending on the position, you may be required to conduct research in the laboratory and communicate with various stakeholders about ocean conditions and research results. Some projects require fundraising activities such as grant applications and street speaking. Many marine biologists use their technical data skills to distribute large amounts of data.

Software programs used by marine biologists include: 

• Python 

• GPS Technology 

• QGIS or ArcGIS 

• Microsoft Excel 

Where Do Marine Biologists Work?

There are several main types of employers for marine biologists. Government agencies employ 40% of all active marine biologists at both the state and also federal levels. The primary employer is known as the National Oceanic and also Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Other positions can be found at the National Park Service (NPS) or the government’s Fish and Wildlife Service. The remaining marine biologists work at universities or private research institutions. Most marine biologists have full-time, permanent, or contract positions. These positions may include employment at certified aquariums, environmental consulting firms, and even scientific journals.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) considered the career of a marine biologist in the occupation “Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist” and gave the following breakdown of her 18,500 currently employed marine biologist employers: is reporting.

Average Salary For A Marine Biologist: 

According to the BLS,  the average marine biologist salary and also wildlife biologists, including marine biologists, was $72,610 in 2022. Your education and also the experience will influence the marine biologist salary levels available to you. The earning potential for marine biologists is high, with the top 10% of marine biologists earning more than $103,900 annually. For entry-level positions, you can expect to easily earn approximately $42,420 per year. Your location within the country also affects your earning potential as a marine biologist. The states with the highest salaries are in the table below.

What Is The Need For Marine Biologists?

The need for marine biologists is expected to remain about the same over the next ten years. The BLS estimates that 1,500 jobs are created in this field each year. One of the biggest challenges to job growth is that government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and other stakeholders are the primary sources of funding for these jobs. However, as climate change and human activities continue to negatively impact the oceans, the need for marine biologists is increasing.

What Are The Requirements To Become A  Marine Biologist?

You need a solid science background, a degree in a related field, and also relevant professional experience. Volunteer experience is often important for entry-level positions. Requirements for marine biologists vary by position but may include diving certification, the ability to use GIS technology, programming skills, and more. A quality marine biology education will prepare you for a variety of positions in the field.

Recommendations For Marine Biologists In Secondary Schools 

Training to become a marine biologist can begin in secondary school. A fulfilling and also successful career in marine biology requires basic knowledge and enthusiasm for STEM subjects. If possible, focus on life science courses such as biology, animal science, anatomy, and ecology. Internships and volunteer work in middle school will strengthen your resume and college applications.

Educational Recommendations For University Marine Biologists 

Most Common Students Have One of the great questions: “You must be a marine biologist.” Typically, at least a bachelor’s degree in marine biology or a related field is required. Some technician positions only require an associate’s degree, but the earning potential may be limited. Senior positions may require a master’s degree. Generally, it takes about four years of college after high school to earn a marine biologist degree.

Bachelor’s Degree 

To become a marine biologist, the required major is one of the following: Biology, Zoology, Animal Science, Conservation Biology, Environmental Policy and also  Management, Hydrology, Biological Oceanography, or Marine Biology.

Science.

If you want to focus on the chemical or theoretical aspects of marine biology, or biochemistry, a degree in chemistry, or statistics may also be suitable.

Graduate Studies 

Students with a bachelor’s degree in marine biology typically work for several years after graduation to gain experience before pursuing a graduate degree.

Master’s Degree And/Or Ph.D.

More doors will open to advancement and high-paying jobs, including research and teaching jobs. Some graduate programs allow you to continue working full-time while studying. For maximum flexibility, consider earning an online master’s degree in marine science from Unity Environmental University.

Additional Certifications and Licenses 

The requirements to become a talented marine biologist can vary widely depending on the position. Earning some additional certifications can qualify you for further career paths in this field. Open water diving certification and first aid/CPR certification are ideal for careers that require remote work. Mapping software such as GIS is also a widely used tool in the field of life sciences. Unity Environmental University offers a 5-week online introductory GIS course. Teach students how to analyze and interpret environmental data and integrate this data with spatial technologies to create accurate geographic maps, models, and graphics of learning ecosystems. This basic course will help you understand how GIS can benefit you as a marine biologist. Recommended Unified Degrees and Courses B.S.

PhD in Marine Biology and Sustainable Aquaculture 

A Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology is the most known direct route to becoming a marine biologist. This online degree will help you start your career as a marine scientist, fisheries biologist, or also aquaculture manager.

Master of Marine Science 

The Master’s degree increases your access to leadership positions in marine biology. There are also opportunities to work as a professor or researcher at a university. This online program is designed for working professionals who want to advance their careers.

B.S. Ph.D. in Environmental Science 

I’m not sure if you want to focus solely on marine science. Earning a degree in environmental science further qualifies you for a variety of careers in marine biology while providing a complete education. With a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, you can work in conservation, alternative energy, or regional planning.

Explore Other Career Paths Related to  Marine Biologists

Zoologists 

Zoologists study all kinds of animals, both in the wild and in captivity. Zoologists and marine biologists can work together to care for marine animals. If you are more interested in land animals than marine animals, you may want to pursue a career as a zoologist.

Aquarist 

Aquarists take care of aquariums in the same way that zookeepers take care of zoos. Anyone interested in this career should consider studying marine biology. This will give you any of the skills and knowledge you need to care for a marine aquarium of any size.

Hydrologist 

For those who are more interested in the study of water than the animals that live in it,  a career as a hydrologist may be of interest. Hydrologists study the interaction of water with its environment. These help keep water clean and available. This work is critical for a sustainable future, as drinking water is a precious resource.